Memphis rub is a signature dry rub commonly used in traditional American barbecue. It adds a flavorful kick to various meats, including pork, chicken, and beef. This recipe will guide you through the process of making a delicious Memphis rub that will elevate your barbecue game to the next level. It's perfect for grilling or smoking meats on a hot summer day.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup paprika
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Directions
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine paprika, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme.
- Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined and the mixture has a consistent color.
- Transfer the rub into an airtight container or a spice jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Store the Memphis rub in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- To use the rub, generously season your choice of meat with the Memphis rub, ensuring all sides are coated.
- Massage the rub into the meat to enhance its flavor.
- For best results, let the meat sit with the rub on for at least 1 hour, or refrigerate it overnight for even better flavor infusion.
- After marinating, cook the meat on a grill or in a smoker until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
Interesting Facts
Memphis rub gets its name from the city of Memphis, Tennessee, which is renowned for its barbecue culture.
This versatile rub can be used on various cuts of meat, such as ribs, pork shoulder, or chicken thighs, to achieve that authentic Memphis barbecue flavor.
The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in the rub creates a delectable bark on the meat when cooked low and slow.
Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the rub according to your preferred level of spiciness.
Once you make a batch of Memphis rub, you can store it for up to 6 months, allowing you to enjoy the flavors whenever you crave some barbecue goodness.